So you’re curious about Linux, and you heard Ubuntu is a great place to start? Maybe you’ve heard of Ubuntu and have no idea about this thing called Linux? Either way, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Ubuntu in easy-to-understand language.

When someone packages the Linux kernel with the software necessary to provide a functional desktop experience, we call the end result a Linux operating system or “distribution.” In 1993, a man named Ian Murdock started a project that did precisely this and named it Debian after him and his then girlfriend, Debra. This project tests software and makes it available for others to download. It quickly blossomed into a massive community.

“Ubuntu is an ancient African word meaning ‘humanity to others.’ It also means ‘I am what I am because of who we all are.'” — ubuntu.com

An early goal of Ubuntu has been to bring the spirit of humanity and community to the world of computers. This is emphasized somewhat less now that Canonical has shifted its focus in a more corporate direction, but Ubuntu users still share a deeply held belief that software should be freely accessible to everyone regardless of language, disability, or income.

Canonical and the Ubuntu Community

Ubuntu is managed and funded by a privately held company called Canonical Ltd. Canonical was founded (and funded) in 2004 by South African entrepreneur, Mark Shuttleworth. Aside from Ubuntu, Shuttleworth is known for making millions selling a company he founded to VeriSign and later visiting the International Space Station.

Canonical provides commercial support to companies using Ubuntu for a fee. The revenue from this support then goes towards the ongoing development of Ubuntu. Canonical’s main headquarters is in London, but it has smaller offices in Canada, Taiwan, and the US.

Canonical’s roles include:

Releasing new versions of Ubuntu every six months

Coordinating security

Hosting servers for Ubuntu’s online community

Canonical also provides various cloud management tools and services. This doesn’t impact Ubuntu on the desktop, but the work benefits people and companies using Ubuntu on servers.

As I mentioned earlier, Canonical doesn’t create or maintain most of the software that goes into Ubuntu. That comes from the broader FOSS community. That’s not the only way Ubuntu benefits from non-employees. People around the world freely share their time and skills to:

The Linux kernel is used in many free and open source operating systems and, just like Ubuntu, is released under the GNU General Public License. It is called “Linux” because it is named after Linus Torvalds, the Finnish computer programmer who created it in 1991.

Contrary to common belief:

Linux is not a corporation

Nobody owns Linux

Linux is a kernel, not a complete OS

In addition to the Linux kernel, a Linux operating system needs a display server, a sound server, a desktop environment, and many other components to make a complete experience. Like with a commercial OS, you don’t need to know what any of these components are. Ubuntu makes these selections for you and packages them together into a fully functional interface.

Why Use Ubuntu?

There are many reasons to use Ubuntu, but here are some of the most important ones:

Ubuntu is beautiful, sleek, and stylish: learn more about the GNOME desktop environment

It’s stable and fast: usually loads in less than a minute on modern computers.

It has no major viruses! Ubuntu is immune to computer-crashing Windows viruses. Say goodbye to Blue Screens of Death!

It’s up-to-date: Canonical releases new versions of Ubuntu every six months and also brings you regular updates for free.

It is supported: you can get all the support and advice you need from the global FOSS community and Canonical.

Among Linux operating systems, Ubuntu is the most supported.

Ubuntu Releases

Every operating system relies on a different approach to assigning version numbers and creating code names. Ubuntu’s method may look strange at first, but it’s actually really simple.

Version Numbers

Canonical ships new versions of Ubuntu every six months, in April and October. Each Ubuntu release has a version number that contains the year and month of its release. This guide, for example, discusses the latest version of Ubuntu: 17.10, released in October of 2017. The next scheduled release of Ubuntu, version 18.04, will be in April of 2018. The one after that will be 18.10 in October of 2018, and so on.

Code Names

In addition to version numbers, Ubuntu releases are also given alliterative code names using an adjective and an animal. The code name for Ubuntu 17.10 is Artful Aardvark. It comes after Zesty Zapus (17.04), which completed the alphabet earlier this year.

The first three versions of Ubuntu were Warty Warthog (4.10), Hoary Hedgehog (5.04), and Breezy Badger (5.10), which had the alliteration but did not yet go in order. Things changed with the release of Dapper Drake (6.06). Ubuntu code names have proceeded in alphabetical order ever since. Thanks to the way things began, Artful Aardvark is the first release to begin with A.

So if you find yourself talking to a fellow Ubuntu enthusiast and they are raving about Wily Werewolf or Yakkety Yak, they are not talking about their love for quirky mammals, but previous versions of the Ubuntu operating system.

Long Term Support Releases

One of the great features of Ubuntu is that it is supported within a structured time frame. New versions of the operating system are released every six months and receive supported from Canonical for 18 months. These versions are referred to as normal releases.

Getting Your Hands on Ubuntu

If you want to make the switch to Ubuntu, doing so is now easier than ever. There are multiple ways to go about doing this. Let’s get the simplest option out of the way first.

Buying a Computer that Comes with Ubuntu

Only a relatively small number of personal computers run Ubuntu. Much of the reason for this comes to the lack of computers running Ubuntu in stores. If you head to your local big box retailer, you are likely to only see Windows or macOS.

Online, the story is a little different. There are plenty of companies looking to sell you a PC that comes running Ubuntu out-of-the-box. You just have to know where to look. Here are a handful of places to start:

If you aren’t that technical of a computer user, this is the safest route to go. A computer will arrive at your door that’s as easy to open up and start using as any you would get from a store in person.

If, on the other hand, you would rather save money, you can likely install Ubuntu on the computer you’re already using. If you are comfortable installing your own software, then the process is likely easier than you think!

Installing Ubuntu on Your Existing Computer

There are three primary ways to install Ubuntu on your computer:

Replace your existing OS with Ubuntu

Install Ubuntu alongside your existing OS

Run Ubuntu off a USB stick

Replacing your existing operating system will run the fastest and smoothest on your computer, even though doing so requires a full commitment to leave your old OS behind.

Getting Started

When you sign into Ubuntu for the first time, you will see a screen that looks like this.
This is the Ubuntu desktop. While Canonical has added a few of its own elements of charm, the interface you see is not exclusive to Ubuntu. It’s actually known as GNOME.

Just like Ubuntu uses the Linux kernel to make software communicate with your computer, it uses GNOME to provide you with an easy-to-use onscreen interface. The panel showing the time, the launcher that opens apps, and the overview screen showing all your open windows are all part of GNOME.

The GNOME Interface

The GNOME desktop is unlike what you may have encountered on Windows and macOS, though it does have some elements in common. Let’s start by looking at the top of the screen.

Top Bar

The bar across the top of the screen provides access to the Activities overview, the currently open application’s menu, the date and time, and system indicators such as battery life and network connectivity.

Dock

The dock occupies the left side of the screen. It shows currently open apps plus shortcuts to your favorites.

Activities Overview

The Activities overview is where most of the magic happens. You open the overview by clicking the Activities button in the top bar or moving your mouse to the top-left corner of the screen.

App Drawer

The app drawer appears at the bottom of the dock. When clicked, it lists all of the apps installed on your computer in a grid of icons.

Search

A search bar appears at the top of the Activities overview. You can open apps, load files, issue commands, and perform numerous other actions by typing into this area.

Workspaces

Workspaces appear on the right side of the activities overview, across from the dock. Think of workspaces as multiple desktops that all exist virtually on the same computer.

Navigating the Top Bar

The first item on the top bar is the Activities button. Clicking here opens the Activities overview.

Next is the application menu. Here is where you go to adjust an app’s settings, such as changing the default download folder for a web browser or changing fonts in a text editor.
In the middle you will find the date and time. Clicking here pulls up a calendar and displays notifications.
The far right corner holds system indicators. There are individual icons showing battery life, network connectivity, sound, Bluetooth, and more. However, clicking on any of these indicators opens up a single menu that will let you toggle volume, change your network, restart your computer, and perform other tasks.

Navigating the Dock

A dock containing your apps lines the left side of the screen. Unlike most other GNOME desktops, Ubuntu’s dock is always visible regardless of whether the Activities overview is open.
Click on an app icon to launch software. If an app opens that isn’t already on the dock, a new icon will appear.
When you open an app, a red indicator appears next to the icon on the dock. If you open another window, a second dot appears. The indicator maxes out at four windows.
Right-clicking an app icon allows you to perform app-specific functions such as opening a new window in Firefox or pausing music in Rhythmbox. This is also how you remove an app stored on the dock or pull up background information about a piece of software.

Navigating the App Drawer

The app drawer, found in the lower-left corner, arranges all of your installed apps into a grid. The experience is similar to what you may have encountered on a smartphone or tablet.
Scroll up or down to switch between pages of apps. Some appear in groups, which is useful for preventing many rarely-used apps of a similar nature from cluttering up the entire app drawer.

Navigating the Activities Overview

Clicking on the Activities button opens the Activities overview.

The overview screen shows all of your open windows.
A search bar sits at the top of the overview screen. You can click the bar to perform a search, but you don’t have to. If you start typing without clicking on the bar, the overview will immediately start showing search results. You can search for apps, files, folders, and settings. You can even look for new software in the Ubuntu Software app.

Navigating Workspaces

Workspaces appear along the right-hand side of the overview screen. Initially, there are only two workspaces stacked vertically, but new ones appear automatically as needed.
You can move windows from one workspace to another by dragging them around, either from the center of the overview screen or from another workspace.

What Is Unity?

Unity is the name of the interface that Ubuntu used from version 11.04 to 17.04. Canonical created this software in-house. It’s open source and available on other Linux operating systems, but Ubuntu was its home.

Ubuntu Applications (How Do I…?)

Now that you’ve got a handle on the GNOME desktop environment, the next step of your journey is to start using Ubuntu-compatible programs and applications. If you’ve recently migrated from a proprietary operating system, you might not be aware of what is available and what programs should you use.

Below is a brief listing of essential programs and applications for managing your computer and your life, most of which are pre-installed on Ubuntu 17.10.

How Do I Update My Computer?

You’ve done the work of installing Ubuntu on to your computer, and now you need to make sure your system is safe, secure, and up-to-date by using the Software Updater. This program will start itself regularly in order to install security updates and critical bug fixes for all your software.
Alternatively, you can select the Updates tab within Ubuntu Software.

How Do I Download Software and Applications?

Are you not sure which software programs are compatible with Ubuntu? Do you want a central application that will manage all of your software needs? Then look no further than Ubuntu Software, an application that allows you to download, install, and remove software without ever having to launch an internet browser.
Ubuntu Software is accessible through your launcher as well as the app drawer. Use it to discover thousands of free applications, games, fonts, and other software that has been tested and validated to work seamlessly with Ubuntu.

With Ubuntu Software, you can:

Search for, download, install, and remove software in a single window

Keep track of installation, update and removal history

Read and write user reviews

Receive software recommendations based on your search and installation history

How Do I Browse the Web?

Mozilla Firefox is one of the most popular web browsers and comes with your installation of Ubuntu 17.10.

How Do I Manage My Email Accounts?

If you are accustomed to reading your mail in a web browser, you can continue doing so. Sites such as Yahoo, Gmail, and Outlook all work under Linux.
Mozilla Thunderbird is the default email app for Ubuntu 17.10 and a commonly used email client on all major computer operating systems. Use Thunderbird to consolidate and centrally manage all of your email accounts and contacts in a single window without having to launch a browser.

How Do I Create Documents, Spreadsheets, Presentations?

LibreOffice is the default office suite in Ubuntu 17.10. It provides much of the same functionalityIs LibreOffice Worthy of the Office Crown?Is LibreOffice Worthy of the Office Crown?LibreOffice is the king of free office suites. It's unlikely to replace Microsoft Office in a business environment, but it's an excellent alternative for casual users. Here's what's new in LibreOffice 5.1.Read More as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The big difference? LibreOffice is free and open source software.
With LibreOffice you can create and open documents using LibreOffice Writer, spreadsheets using LibreOffice Calc, and slideshows using LibreOffice Impress. LibreOffice can open, edit and create files compatible with Microsoft Office, which is perfect for collaborating with friends who don’t use Ubuntu.

What If I Need to Do Something Else?

Not a problem. There are thousands of apps and tools available for Ubuntu and other Linux operating systems. For more recommendations, check out our list of the best Linux softwareThe Best Linux SoftwareThe Best Linux SoftwareAwesome apps are available for Linux. Whether you're new to the operating system or you're a seasoned user, you'll always find new and useful Linux software to love. These are our favorites.Read More.

Support and Community

Need help with anything described above? The Ubuntu community can help with any step of the process. You can:

The massive community is one of Ubuntu’s biggest strengths. With so many users, it’s likely that someone online has already wrestled with a problem you’re experiencing. Ubuntu-related information is so prominent that it’s worth exploring even if you’re using another Linux operating system, simply because the solutions are often compatible.

Whether your preference is in-person or online, there is a passionate Ubuntu community willing to share their expertise and knowledge with you. Let’s go through some of your options in more detail.

Ubuntu Local Communities

Ubuntu Local Communities, or LoCos for short, are groups of users and enthusiasts working together in regional settings to advocate, promote, translate, develop and otherwise improve Ubuntu. If you’re a new Ubuntu user, a LoCo can provide you with advice, technical support, and a community to join.

To find an Ubuntu Local Community near you, please visit the LoCo Team Directory. Contact your nearest LoCo and attend a support event in your city to access a wealth of Ubuntu resources while meeting great people.

Get Involved!

Joining an Ubuntu Local Community will also provide you with lots of opportunities to get involved and learn new skills. Volunteer contributions take many forms, and you don’t need to be a computer programmer to help make Ubuntu better for everyone. There are many ways to get involved:

Provide advice and technical support to other users

Write and package new software

Fix bugs in existing software

Design graphics, backgrounds, or themes

Write official and community documentation

Donate time to promote and advocate Ubuntu

Free Documentation

If you’re stuck on a problem, it’s very likely that other users have encountered it before. You may find find the solution is Ubuntu’s official documentation. This site is developed and maintained by the Ubuntu Documentation Project. It is fully searchable and provides documentation for current and previous Ubuntu releases.

Ask Ubuntu and Launchpad

Ask Ubuntu is a site for Ubuntu users and developers. Anyone can ask a question, and anyone is free to answer. Readers vote up the answers that are most helpful. Questions can range from general inquiries on how the desktop works to specific bugs impacting Ubuntu on your particular hardware configuration.

If you really want to get down into the weeds, you may want to check out Launchpad. Launchpad is a web application and website developed and maintained by Canonical. It is a major knowledge base for Ubuntu, but it is also much more than a questions and answers site. It is within Launchpad that most of the collaborative work of Ubuntu and other free software projects happen. Launchpad has several dedicated areas including code hosting and review, bug tracking, web-based translation, and Launchpad Answers.

As your knowledge and experience with Ubuntu grows, it’s a good idea to get familiar with all aspects of Launchpad, but for beginner users looking to find technical support, Launchpad Answers is a great starting point.

Further Reading

Congrats, you’re now running Ubuntu! Hopefully the experience is everything you hope. While at times it may feel that you’re alone, there’s a community of millions of people out there also using Ubuntu with you. You also have a trove of information to fall back on here at MakeUseOf. Here’s more Ubuntu-related material for you to check out once you’re ready to go further.

Have any questions about Ubuntu not covered above? Feel free to raise concerns in the comments below. You never know when another reader might be able to help! If nothing else, you may just establish a connection with another Ubuntu lover.

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Andy Turfer

August 5, 2018 at 9:37 pm

Good article. I have been using Ubuntu for about 10 years now. When Canonical decided to ditch Unity, I moved over to Kubuntu. I tried to "get along" with Gnome 3, but cannot. I absolutely hate it. I love KDE Plasma 5. I wish Canonical had of rolled with Kubuntu instead of ditching Unity for Gnome 3.

There's a lot of ground to cover when holding someone's hand through an entire operating system for the first time. What particular aspect would you like a guide to? I may be able to help or point you in the right direction.

Now I use Fedora 26 on Samsung Q1 touchscreen and it's is even more comfort than in Windows 7 (Win 10 I didn't use). Honestly, I love both Fedora and Ubuntu, but the main reason, why I use Linux after 15 years of experience with Windows, is a better performance, more privacy, a lot of free cutting-edge software, greate newbie-friendly community and ... (the short list of main benefits https://echoua.com/10-reasons-to-use-linux-instead-of-windows/)
I hope you will enjoy with Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora or any Linux-based OS.

After the Windows 8-8.1 disaster I would not recommend Gnome 3 to someone coming to Ubuntu from Windows. I would recommend Ubuntu Mate, a much more traditional desktop. I would also recommend the LTS version. Windows users are used to updates, but most want to stick with certain desktop as long as possible, be it XP , Win 7 or trying Ubuntu. The overall information here is great for a new user.

That's a fair point. It depends on *why* someone is leaving Windows. In my case, I wanted something that felt very different from Windows -- otherwise I could just continue using Windows. But I understand many people leave Windows to save money, for more stability, or for any number of reasons, and want to keep the experience they're familiar with!

Bertel is an RVA-based writer who has covered consumer tech for over five years. With a BA in History and Government from the College of William and Mary, he is as comfortable helping others understand digital rights and policy as he is reviewing apps.